The macrophage in inflammation

Macrophages are involved in regulation of a range of
inflammatory conditions by producing inflammatory cytokines. The
macrophage is the main (or sole) producer of range of
pro-inflammatory cytokines (including TNF, IL-1, IL-6, MCP-1).

Dexamethasone is a highly potent anti-inflammatory drug, but the
current use is limited due to severe problems with adverse
effects. Studies in pigs have shown that macrophage by
targeted delivery of dexamethasone, the systemic dexamethasone load
can be reduced 50 times without loss of anti-inflammatory effect on
cytokine expression.